McCullum Signals Desire to Continue as England Coach Despite T20 WC Semi Exit
England coach Brendon McCullum has indicated that he would like to continue in his role despite his side’s narrow 7-run loss to India in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal. Speaking to Sky Sports, the former New Zealand captain said he still sees much to achieve with the team across all formats.
“I love the job,” McCullum said. “It doesn’t come without challenges, of course, but I feel we’ve achieved some really cool things over the last few years. There’s still so much to achieve with the side, and I would love to carry on. We’ll see what unfolds over the next little while.”
The semi-final defeat capped a tough winter for England, which included a 4-1 Ashes defeat to Australia. The series also triggered questions about the team’s dressing room culture and prompted a review by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which examined the positions of McCullum and director of cricket Rob Key.
McCullum admitted that he will reflect on the past months to evaluate what has worked and what hasn’t. He also stressed that the England side did not fully play the Bazball style during the Ashes series, but praised the white-ball team for maintaining a strong identity under Harry Brook’s captaincy.
“Did we play the style we took to Australia? Probably not,” McCullum said. “That’s something we need to have a good conversation about—what direction and style we want to be consistent with.”
Under contract until the end of 2027, McCullum is expected to lead England through the 2027 ODI World Cup and a home Ashes series. The ECB aims to complete the team review ahead of England’s next assignment: a Test series against New Zealand in June.
McCullum also noted the importance of taking a break and reflecting: “After being on the road, it’s about getting home, relaxing, and objectively looking at what’s working and what isn’t for the team.”
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